How Do I Draw Near to God? // Message Recap ft. Dr. Gary Singleton
Feb 4, 2025
auto_awesome
The hosts kick off with a lighthearted chat about breakfast before diving into the magic of collective worship. They discuss how faith plays a crucial role in deepening our relationship with God, as highlighted in Hebrews. Personal stories illustrate the journey of becoming a new creation in faith and the transformative power of a conscious choice to believe. Lastly, they share their hopes for the upcoming year, aiming for 150 baptisms, while emphasizing the importance of communal prayer and trust in God's transformative abilities.
Drawing near to God requires a heartfelt faith that transcends mere religious activities and emphasizes genuine motivation and intimacy.
Developing confidence in God's presence through prayer and reflection fosters a deeper spiritual connection despite life's uncertainties.
Deep dives
The Importance of Drawing Near to God
Drawing near to God is essential for a fulfilled spiritual life, as it brings both pleasure to God and satisfaction to the believer's soul. Faith acts as the foundation for this approach, emphasizing that it is impossible to please God without it. True engagement involves more than just a checklist of religious activities; it requires an understanding of the motivation behind drawing near, lest it devolve into legalism. Engaging with God through prayer and devotion fosters an intimate relationship akin to that of sitting at Jesus' feet or staring in awe, creating a deeper connection beyond mere transactional requests.
Hunger for God and Confidence in His Existence
A strong desire, or hunger, for God is intertwined with confidence in His presence and promises, as expressed in Hebrews 11:6. Believing that God rewards those who seek Him is crucial for spiritual growth, encouraging believers to actively pursue a relationship with Him. This confidence doesn't come naturally; it's a deliberate choice that can be reinforced through prayer and reflection. Recognizing that faith is a gift from God, individuals can choose to trust in His existence and goodness, fostering a deeper sense of security during times of uncertainty.
Embracing Faith in Unseen Realities
Living a life of faith often involves navigating the unseen, and this can be challenging for many believers. Assurance in God's presence, even when not physically felt, is a vital part of the faith experience, and believers are encouraged to trust in His everlasting support. Engaging with God should be less about fulfilling a checklist and more about establishing an authentic connection, regardless of feelings or circumstances. This concept highlights that faith is not merely a response to what is seen but also a conviction rooted in the unseen truths of God's character and promises.